SPQR

A History of Ancient Rome

Ranked #1 in Rome, Ranked #2 in Ancient Romesee more rankings.

In SPQR, an instant classic, Mary Beard narrates the history of Rome "with passion and without technical jargon" and demonstrates how "a slightly shabby Iron Age village" rose to become the "undisputed hegemon of the Mediterranean" (Wall Street Journal). Hailed by critics as animating "the grand sweep and the intimate details that bring the distant past vividly to life" (Economist) in a way that makes "your hair stand on end" (Christian Science Monitor) and spanning nearly a thousand years of history, this "highly informative, highly readable" (Dallas Morning... more

Reviews and Recommendations

We've comprehensively compiled reviews of SPQR from the world's leading experts.

Olly Murphy (Wycombe Abbey) I think SPQR is a wonderful book. Ancient Roman history is so very dense and intricate that it can be difficult to teach and learn about. Mary Beard makes it accessible—and she goes through it all, from the early days right up until the present day. (Source)


Rankings by Category

SPQR is ranked in the following categories:


Similar Books

If you like SPQR, check out these similar top-rated books:


Learn: What makes Shortform summaries the best in the world?